OCP and Glucose Study

Acute Effect of the Oral Contraceptive Pill on Glucose Handling

Background

It is estimated that upwards of 100 million women worldwide use the oral contraceptive pill or “the pill” as it is more commonly known. Despite the prevalence of use quite little is known about how the pill effects particular aspects of health. This research trial will examine the effect of the pill on aspects of cardiovascular and metabolic health, in particular the effect on how efficiently our body uses glucose (a sugar) as a fuel.

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Eligibility Criteria

To participate in this study you must be:

· Female, aged 18-40

· Generally Healthy

· Normal weight – i.e. have a BMI between 18.5 and 25 kg/m2

· Currently taking the oral contraceptive pill for more than 3 months

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What happens if you decide to participate?

If you decide to participate you will be asked to complete 3 study visits over about a month. The first study visit is to make sure you are definitely eligible for the study and to measure your body composition. The second and third visits are longer visits during which we will use a machine called a calorimeter to measure your response to consuming a glucose-containing drink.

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What will you receive for your participation?

You will receive a $20 voucher after completion of your first visit to cover your travel expenses. You will receive a $100 voucher after completion of both the second and third visits ($50/visit).